Selecting the right school for an online degree in Educational Instructional Technology involves evaluating several factors to ensure that you receive a quality education tailored to your career aspirations. Consider the following criteria:

• Accreditation: Make sure the institution is accredited by a recognized accrediting agency. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain academic standards, which can enhance the credibility of your degree in the job market.

• Program Curriculum: Review the curriculum offered by the program. Look for courses that align with your career goals and interests, such as instructional design, technology integration, and assessment strategies. A program that offers flexibility in course selection may better suit your personal and professional objectives.

• Faculty Qualifications: Research the credentials and background of the faculty members. Faculty who have practical experience in the field, along with advanced degrees, can offer valuable insights and networking opportunities.

• Student Support Services: Investigate the resources available for online students, such as academic advising, career services, and access to tutoring. A strong support system can enhance your educational experience and help you succeed.

• Technology and Learning Tools: Examine the technology used in the program. A well-designed online platform that facilitates collaboration and access to resources is essential. Look for programs that integrate the latest educational technologies, which can play a significant role in your learning process.

• Flexibility and Format: Assess the program’s schedule and format. Determine whether the program offers asynchronous courses, which allow you to learn at your own pace, or synchronous classes that require you to attend online lectures at specific times. Choose a format that fits your lifestyle and obligations.

• Reputation of the Program: Research rankings and reviews of the schools you are considering. Student testimonials and alumni success can provide insights into the quality of education and job placement rates after graduation.

• Cost and Financial Aid: Compare tuition costs and explore financial aid options. Understand the total cost of the program, including fees for technology, materials, and textbooks. Look for scholarships or assistantships that can help alleviate the financial burden.

• Networking Opportunities: Investigate whether the program offers opportunities for networking with professionals in the field, such as guest speakers, conferences, and connections to industry partners. Networking can be key to finding job opportunities after graduation.

• Job Placement Rates: Check the institution's job placement rates for graduates of the Educational Instructional Technology program. A high placement rate can indicate that the program prepares its students effectively for careers in the field.

With careful consideration of these factors, you can select a school and online degree program in Educational Instructional Technology that aligns with your educational and professional goals.

• Course Materials and Online Libraries

  • Many institutions provide access to a wealth of course materials, including textbooks, academic journals, and multimedia content. Check your prospective program's library resources to find databases such as JSTOR, Google Scholar, or ERIC, which offer valuable research publications in educational technology.
  • Resources:
    • JSTOR
    • Google Scholar
    • ERIC

• Learning Management Systems (LMS)

  • Familiarize yourself with popular LMS platforms used in online education. Understanding tools like Canvas, Blackboard, or Moodle will enhance your learning experience and prepare you for future job environments where these systems are employed. Look for tutorials or user guides provided by your program.
  • Resources:
    • Canvas
    • Blackboard
    • Moodle

• Webinars and Online Workshops

  • Engage in webinars and workshops that focus on various topics within educational technology. Many professional organizations offer free or low-cost webinars that can provide insights into current trends, tools, and techniques in the field.
  • Resources:
    • International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE)
    • EdSurge

• Professional Associations and Memberships

  • Joining professional organizations in the field of instructional technology can provide networking opportunities, access to exclusive resources, and membership in communities of practice.
  • Resources:
    • Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT)
    • The eLearning Guild

• Online Forums and Communities

  • Participate in online forums to connect with peers, educators, and instructional designers. Communities such as Reddit, LinkedIn Groups, and specialized forums on platforms like Edutopia can be excellent for sharing experiences, resources, and advice.
  • Resources:
    • Edutopia Community
    • LinkedIn Groups

• Technology Tools and Software

  • Familiarize yourself with essential technology tools that are widely used in instructional design, such as Articulate Storyline, Adobe Captivate, and Camtasia. Many software companies provide free trials or student discounts to help you gain experience without significant financial investment.
  • Resources:
    • Articulate
    • Adobe Captivate
    • Camtasia

• Career Services and Job Boards

  • Explore the career services offered by your online program, which may include career counseling, resume workshops, and job placement assistance. Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn Jobs can be useful for searching job openings in educational technology.
  • Resources:
    • Indeed
    • Glassdoor
    • LinkedIn Jobs

Utilizing these resources will help you maximize your experience in an Educational Instructional Technology online degree program and prepare for a successful career in the field.